Train cancellations and construction sites: chaos in Schleswig-Holstein's rail traffic!

Train cancellations and construction sites: chaos in Schleswig-Holstein's rail traffic!

In Schleswig-Holstein the motto at the moment is: Be careful when traveling by train! In August 2025, commuters and travelers will face significant challenges because Deutsche Bahn and Nordbahn have announced extensive construction work that will lead to numerous train cancellations, diversions and replacement services. Passengers in the Hamburg, Lübeck and Neumünster regions in particular have to expect delays and be prepared for an uncertain travel route.

In a recent communication from NDR It is warned that the Hamburg – Berlin railway line will be completely closed from today until the end of April 2026. This far-reaching general renovation measure affects both long-distance and regional transport. Long-distance trains are being rerouted and replacement buses are on the way for regional trains. Commuters should therefore be well informed and adjust their travel plans if necessary.

Current restrictions and timetable deviations

The construction work is not just limited to the route to Berlin. There will also be nightly train cancellations and timetable changes on the Nordbahn route between Hamburg and Wrist/Itzehoe in August. From August 4th to 31st, the RB71 and RB61 lines will be affected, and wheelchair-accessible replacement buses will also be available here.

In addition, several connections on the RE1 and RE2 lines between Rostock Hbf or Schwerin Hbf and Lübeck Hbf will be canceled on August 25th and 26th between 9:45 p.m. and 6 a.m. Train travelers are advised to find out the exact departure times in advance, as there are always changes to plans. The provides a quick overview website from Deutsche Bahn, which provides information in real time and provides an interactive disruption map.

Services for travelers

The Nordbahn has also set up information services for its passengers. A service telephone can be reached at (040) 303 97 73 33 to assist participants with their travel plans. Information buses are also on the road to inform travelers about alternative transport and to alleviate uncertainty.

A particularly useful tool is the construction site planner on the platform db-fahrplan.com, which helps travelers identify possible disabilities in advance and plan accordingly. If you want to travel at night, you should definitely take a look at the departure boards or set up automatic notifications about delays.

Overall, the combination of extensive construction work and the uncertain timetable should not dampen the desire to travel, but a good hand in planning is more important than ever. If you are informed in good time, you can tackle the issues and maintain your joy of traveling despite all the inconveniences.